Joel Libava
Texas continues to lead the way in supporting small businesses with the passage of House Bill 346, a game-changing law that streamlines business formation and solidifies critical benefits for veteran-owned businesses.
Authored by Representative Harris Davila and Senator King, the bill promises to make Texas an even more attractive destination for entrepreneurs seeking efficiency and financial relief.
Texas Introduces Faster Business Filings
Starting September 1, 2025, the Texas Secretary of State will offer faster business filings for entrepreneurs looking to set up their businesses quickly. This new service addresses long-standing frustrations over delays in processing applications, enabling small businesses to launch operations without unnecessary administrative hurdles.
To support this initiative, the bill removes previous caps on expedited service fees, giving the Secretary of State the flexibility to establish a variable fee schedule based on the type of business organization.
These fees, designed to reflect the complexity and urgency of filings, will be transparently published on the Secretary of State’s website.
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This streamlined process will be a game-changer for business owners, saving valuable time and reducing the stress associated with traditional filing delays.
Permanent Benefits for Veteran-Owned Businesses
House Bill 346 also delivers great news for Texas veterans. The state is making two essential incentives for new veteran-owned businesses permanent:
- Franchise Tax Exemption: New veteran-owned businesses are exempt from paying the state’s franchise tax during their initial years. This provides a crucial financial cushion for veterans navigating the challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship.
- Filing Fee Waiver: The waiver of state business filing fees eliminates another barrier to entry, making it easier for veterans to pursue their business dreams.
Previously, these benefits were temporary and set to expire in 2026. With the passage of this bill, they will continue indefinitely, ensuring lasting support for veteran entrepreneurs in Texas.
A Broader Commitment to Small Business Growth in Texas
House Bill 346 is part of a larger effort by the Governor’s Small Business Freedom Council to reduce red tape and improve efficiency for Texas businesses. This legislation reflects a broader commitment to making Texas the nation’s best state for small business growth.
By expediting the startup process and offering meaningful financial incentives, Texas reaffirms its reputation as an entrepreneurial powerhouse.
Now, entrepreneurs and veterans alike can now enjoy a smoother path to success, backed by policies that prioritize efficiency and opportunity.
For those ready to start their journey, Texas is proving to be the ultimate destination…now with faster business filings.
(Main image courtesy of David Herrera, Flickr)
About the Author
Joel Libava is The Franchise King® — an independent franchise advisor with 25+ years in the industry, two published books on franchising, and his writing has been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, CNBC, Entrepreneur® Magazine and others. In addition, he wrote exclusively for the U.S. Small Business Administration blog for eight years. He doesn't sell franchises. Instead, Joel helps you figure out if franchise ownership is actually right for you — and if it is, teaches you his powerful, proven-to-work franchise research techniques, so you can make a smart, informed decision on a franchise to own and be your own boss.
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